If you’re looking to darken your hair color for fall and winter but are burnt out on brown, it may be time to add blue-black hair color to your list of options. The stunning hue marries the richness of black with the coolness of blue for a look that's as mysterious as it is mesmerizing. We spoke with Matrix colorist and Global Ambassador George Papanikolas to discuss everything you need to know about the trendy shade, including who it works best on and how to keep blue-black hair dye looking fresh. Keep scrolling for all the deets on this vampy color.
Good hair day by @corazonsagrado_.
What Is Blue-Black Hair Color?
Blue-black hair color is exactly what it sounds like: a rich, deep shade that contains both blue and black tones. The cool-toned shade typically features a dark black base with a subtle blue navy undertone that becomes more apparent in certain lighting. The subdued blue sheen also adds a vibrant, almost iridescent quality to locks and is a great way to add depth and coolness to classic jet-black hair.
Good hair day by @softihair.
Who Should Try Blue-Black Hair?
Blue-black hair is a good option for those interested in going darker but want to avoid the intensity of full-on jet black.
“It tends to work beautifully on darker hair and can look striking on cool skin tones,” Papanikolas. However, he warns that the look may not be suitable for everyone. “The biggest mistake is going too dark. Jet black hair can look harsh, especially if you [have] naturally lighter [hair]. The universal rule is to stay within two shades of your natural color to give the most flattering end results. Going any darker can look harsh.”
If you’re eager to try blue-black hair but fear it’ll clash with your skin tone, book a consultation with a pro colorist. They can assess which shade will be the most complementary against your skin tone and let you know whether the hue is attainable on your base color.
Good hair day by @lifewithjoeamo.
How Do You Achieve Blue Black Hair?
The most common way to score this sultry shade is with a blue-black hair dye, which typically contains both black and deep midnight blue pigments. This takes the guesswork out of achieving that perfect ratio of blue to black so that you get the best possible results.
Keep in mind that if you’re starting with an already dark base, you may need to undergo multiple bleaching or coloring sessions to help the bluish tint properly adhere to your hair. Bleach will always cause some damage, so we recommend leaving major hair color transformations to the pros to help preserve your hair’s integrity.
4 Tips When Going Blue-Black
Plunging into blue-black hair color can be a big commitment. Here are five important things to consider before dialing up your stylist.
You may need a special shampoo
Papanikolas notes that a blue-pigment depositing shampoo like Matrix Brass Off can help maintain the cool undertones of your blue-black hair and prevent fading. Swap the cobalt-tinted formula into your routine about once a week in place of your regular shampoo to reap the benefits.
Hair masks are a must
“Deep conditioning treatments like Matrix Instacure Build-a-Bond Instant Revival Liquid Mask will also keep your hair hydrated and healthy, prolonging the life of the color,” says Papanikolas. This powerful hair treatment, which is infused with citric acid and squalane, helps condition, smooth, strengthen, and add shine to hair and leaves it with a silky finish.
It looks best with shine
A dull, lackluster finish can make your blue-black hair look drab and inky. When hair is shiny, however, it better catches and reflects the light so that your hue appears rich and dimensional. We suggest finishing your styling routine with a shine-enhancing serum or hair oil to help restore some of that essential luster. For the former, we love the Pureology Shine Bright Taming Hair Serum to add a glossy sheen to strands and control frizz. As for the latter, we’re huge fans of the Kérastase Elixir Ultime L'Huile Original Hair Oil, which provides up to 92% (!) more shine.* Read more about why fans call it “liquid gold in a bottle” in our Kérastase Elixir Ultime Hair Oil Review.
*vs. unwashed hairGood hair day by @kristen_o_beauty.
Expect frequent touch-ups
Blue-black hair dye presents a bit of a conundrum: On one hand, it’s incredibly difficult to remove completely. On the other, it tends to fade faster than other colors, especially the further away your natural hair color is from black. As such, you can expect to have a standing appointment at the salon to keep your shade fresh.
“Blue-black hair typically needs touch-ups every 4-6 weeks, depending on your natural level, and percentage of gray hair,” notes Papanikolas. As for the telltale signs to watch for? “Visible roots and fading means it’s time for a refresh.”
Ready to try blue-black hair dye with a pro near you? Use our salon locator to book today.
Next Up: 25 Jet Black Hair Color Variations for Fall 2024
Header photo credit: @corazonsagrado_
